Thomson Snell & Passmore

This leading South East law firm is recognised for the high quality of its services in areas ranging from corporate and commercial law, commercial property and development, employment and dispute resolution to high-value private client work, clinical negligence, residential conveyancing and family matters.

The firm: With roots going back to 1570, Thomson Snell & Passmore has been honoured by the Guinness World Records as the oldest law firm in the world still in operation. Based in Tunbridge Wells and with over 170 lawyers, the firm prides itself on giving uncomplicated, insightful advice conveyed in a straightforward way, making use of first-class technology. It has a history of providing high-quality, prompt and cost-effective legal services that protect client’s interests and safeguard their rights. The firm builds long-term relationships by encouraging a culture of respect, understanding and excellence. The client base includes private individuals, including directors, sports and media personalities, entrepreneurs, PLCs, SMEs, family businesses, subsidiaries of overseas companies, housing associations, schools and charities.

The firm’s continuing organic growth has been supported by a number of hires, together with its strategy of working in teams, sharing knowledge and expertise. Its aim is to provide peace of mind for generations of families and businesses. The practice has been recognised by industry awards in a number of fields, including a Top 25 Law Firm awarded by ePrivate Client magazine and appearances in the Citywealth leaders list. Twenty-six of its leading practice areas are ranked by prominent independent guides to UK law firms. Thomson Snell & Passmore is frequently quoted on legal topics in the media, including the Financial Times.

Types of work undertaken: The corporate team handles a range of matters, including complex and high-value transactions and cross-border as well as domestic issues. All aspects of trading and contractual matters are dealt with, with the aim of maximising client’s long-term profitability. Real estate and development expertise includes extensive experience in promoting, acquiring and disposing of land for development, property finance and all aspects of purchasing, selling or leasing commercial property.

Specialist employment lawyers help to prevent employee claims arising and protect businesses against penalties. They have significant experience with tribunal claims. Dispute resolution expertise includes finding the most practical and cost-effective route to successfully dealing with any dispute. A variety of international as well as UK matters are handled.

Private client expertise includes a large number of referrals from clients and other professionals, as a result of the complexity and high quality of the firm’s work. Services include tax, probate, estate planning and trusts. The firm has the second largest Court of Protection practice in the country by number of cases and value, and is recognised for its range, depth and expertise in property and financial deputyships, welfare and contentious cases and personal injury trusts.

The Clinical Negligence & Personal Injury team is expert in a variety of complex and high-value cases, including cerebral palsy, other types of brain injury, amputation and delayed diagnosis of cancer. Catastrophic injury and adult and child brain injury are among the firm’s personal injury specialisms. The family team has the experience to act even in the most unusual and difficult circumstances. Matters include mediation and collaborative law, financial agreements, child welfare, care proceedings, cohabitation disputes and prenuptial agreements.